Broadway Tunnel construction begins for $76 million seismic upgrade

A 14-month construction project has commenced on San Francisco’s Broadway Tunnel to facilitate a $76 million seismic upgrade of the Chinatown Public Health Center located above the tunnel. The project includes installing a new roadway, pedestrian walkways, and LED lighting within the tunnel.

To support the work, the tunnel underwent a full closure from Sunday morning through early Monday morning. Following this initial closure, traffic will be restricted via a phased approach. For the first seven months, the eastbound bore will close, forcing all traffic into the other bore. For the subsequent seven months, the westbound bore will close, with two-way traffic utilizing the remaining bore.

San Francisco officials have warned of significant traffic delays. The San Francisco Unified School District has advised families in the Chinatown and North Beach areas to allow extra travel time and expect potential changes to school bus routes. The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) plans to use digital message signs to assist drivers with navigation during the construction period.